Bible Commentaries
Psalms 97

Verse 1

97:1 The {a} LORD reigneth; let the earth rejoice; let the {b} multitude of isles be glad [thereof].

(a) He shows that where God reigns, there is all happiness and spiritual joy.

(b) For the gospel will not only be preached in Judea, but through all isles and countries.

Verse 2

97:2 {c} Clouds and darkness [are] round about him: righteousness and judgment [are] the habitation of his throne.

(c) He is thus described to keep his enemies in fear, who commonly contemn God’s power.

Verse 4

97:4 His lightnings enlightened the world: the earth saw, and {d} trembled.

(d) This fear does not bring the wicked to true obedience, but makes them run away from God.

Verse 7

97:7 {e} Confounded be all they that serve graven images, that boast themselves of idols: worship him, {f} all [ye] gods.

(e) He signifies that God’s judgments are ready to destroy the idolatry.

(f) Let all who are esteemed in the world fall down before him.

Verse 8

97:8 Zion heard, and was glad; and the {g} daughters of Judah rejoiced because of thy judgments, O LORD.

(g) The Jews will have opportunity to rejoice that the Gentiles are made partakers with them of God’s favour.

Verse 10

97:10 Ye that {h} love the LORD, hate evil: he preserveth the souls of his saints; he delivereth them out of the hand of the wicked.

(h) He requires two things from his children: the one that they detest vice, the other, that they put their trust in God for their deliverance.

Verse 11

97:11 {i} Light is sown for the righteous, and gladness for the upright in heart.

(i) Though God’s deliverance does not appear suddenly, yet it is sown and laid up in store for them.

Verse 12

97:12 Rejoice in the LORD, ye righteous; and give thanks at the {k} remembrance of his holiness.

(k) Be mindful of his benefits and only trust in his defence.